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“Farmers are still looking to purchase the better breeding stock and are then willing to pay.”

Russell Steer says in the South West, people are looking for sheep but they are hesitant when buying.

“There is still demand for early lambing sheep. But beyond that, it is hard work,” he says.

He highlighted those lambing later did not have substantial amounts to invest in ewes, but those who had sold lambs early were willing to give £130 or more for breeding ewes.

Mr Steer adds at this stage last year, drought was the main thing on people’s minds.

“After that, people simply did not want them,” he says.

GAINING CONTROL

GAINING control of genetics and estimated breeding values has been a major driver over the past few years, with lowland flocks looking at bringing through their own replacements rather than drafting them through the hills, according to Rebecca Obourne.

Farmers are taking control of their breeding lines by bringing in their own replacements, as well as protecting their farms against disease.

“We have seen a continuation in the use of estimated breeding values,” she says.

Margins

Ms Obourne adds people are also looking at importing some New Zealand genetics into their flocks as the industry looks to improve its margins.